Today's MBA Realities

Newly minted MBAs face an extremely tight job market now, especially in industries like finance and banking. One student on the verge of graduation tells his tale of seeking an internship - a hunt that's turning into a full-time job.

More from Chicago's Top MBA Schools

Is an eMBA worth getting now?

Since the downturn, many executives have considered going back to school to get an advanced degree. But is it worthwhile? Mary Delaney of Chicago talent sourcing firm Personified pursued an eMBA at Northwestern University. Read the story

A costs-benefits analysis

Mike Fogarty, owner of Chicago ad agency Kokopelli, says the time and energy he spent on getting an eMBA from the University of Chicago was ultimately worthwhile, but the program was intense and challenging. It's not for everyone. Fogarty is glad he did it -- but he's also glad it's over. Read the story

Getting in

As the recession grinds on, applications to MBA programs are on the rise, meaning it's getting even harder to get into some of the most competitive schools. One would-be MBA, Nora Schlesinger, shares the story of what she's doing to try to separate herself from the pack. She's aware that she'll have to clear a high bar to get into Northwestern and Stanford, her top two picks.

What's next

Pete Thorne never realized that getting an internship would be such a tough slog. But with his last day of classes in DePaul's MBA program looming in June, he's spending more time than he expected working the phones, sending out resumes--and worrying. He's entering a tight job market, but he's confident that he'll be better off doing so with an MBA on his resume.

Paying for it

Urban planner Michio Murakishi is seeking an MBA to prepare for a career in real estate development. He says he's saved enough to pay for about half of the program at DePaul. He figures he can borrow the rest, and he's trying not to worry about the price he'll pay to pursue his dream. But he admits that it's hard not to worry sometimes, especially since he's quitting his job to study full-time.